Interviews, Film Reviews, and More
Shot Caller (2017) - How Realistic Is It?
A former prison gang member reviews the 2017 film Shot Caller, revealing the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Respect Earned in Blood - Redwood Interview
In this gripping interview, former Aryan Circle member Redwood recounts his journey from entering the Texas prison system at just 16 to surviving the violent world of Beto Unit (Beto 1), one of the most dangerous prisons in TDCJ. He describes a life surrounded by stabbings, riots, and constant threats, as well as his role during the rise of the Aryan Circle. After years of violence and three grueling years in solitary confinement, Redwood eventually walked away from that life. Now free for more than 20 years, he reflects on survival, consequences, and the long road to redemption.
Escaping the Cartel - Mario Interview
Mario grew up in a Texas border town where the drug trade was part of daily life, helping his father smuggle meth purchased from Mexican cartels. The life eventually caught up with him, and he was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, while his father later disappeared under mysterious circumstances. Behind bars, Mario discovered a talent for painting and tattooing that completely changed his path. Today he’s a successful tattoo artist sharing the raw story of cartel ties, prison survival, and turning his life around.
Life Over the Limit - Laydown Interview
I sit down with Laydown from Mesquite, Texas, whose incredible life story covers a journey from high school football stardom to the gritty world of rodeo bull riding, and ultimately into the dark side of crime and gang life. Laydown opens up about the choices that led him to years behind bars in Texas prisons and shares raw insights from the brutal reality of gang affiliation and prison life. But his story doesn't end there. Laydown’s transformation and newfound faith in Christianity have given him a second chance and a mission to inspire others.
Prisoner and Correctional Officer Sit Down
A former Texas inmate sits down with a former TDCJ correctional officer to talk honestly about working and living inside prison. From two very different perspectives, they dive into the harsh realities of the system—what it’s really like to join TDCJ, the mental and physical toll of working behind the walls, and the culture that shapes both inmates and staff.
Felon (2008) - How Realistic Is It?
A writer and former prison gang member reviews the 2008 film Felon and weighs in on which parts are realistic and which are not.
Blood In, Blood Out - Bound By Honor (1993) - How Realistic Is It?
In this review of the 1993 classic Blood In, Blood Out, I examine the film’s gritty portrayal of gang life, brotherhood, and prison culture. Directed by Taylor Hackford, the movie explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, identity, and the consequences of crime. I also highlight standout performances by Damian Chapa, Jesse Borrego, and Benjamin Bratt while breaking down key scenes and the film’s lasting impact on crime cinema.
Knife Fighting and Fighting Knives
Explore the deadly art and history of knife fighting. From the fearsome Spanish Navaja to the iconic American Bowie knife, I trace the evolution of fighting blades through history. Learn about the origins of knife combat, traditional knife fighting techniques from Western martial arts, and how these styles evolved into modern self-defense systems.